Loud and noisy scenes during business meetings are also common. "Like Italians, Indians can be very noisy and sound argumentative, even when they are not. We advise business leaders to not worry if you have disagreements in a meeting, so long as it ends with a warm consensus. It is vital that disagreement is followed by consensus," he suggests.

For Australians, this can be challenging as their direct and blunt ways may offend their counterparts in India. Being critical of the boss is also a 'Big No', according to the expert.

"It is vital to talk positively about your boss and describe his or her achievements," Manallack says. "Similarly, you should be able to create the best word-picture of your organisation. Why would they choose your organisation if you do not show total joy and commitment to what you do?" he adds.

Indians and Australians also view 'Time' differently, according to Manallack. "Indian counterpart would see the past, present and future as interrelated. This approach to time explains why we are always rushing about, completing one meeting and rushing to the next, while your Indian host seems relaxed, not in a rush, dealing with many other things while meeting with you, and so on," Manallack points out.

He also prepares his clients for long meetings with even longer periods of silence and many other distractions like signing files, letters and frequent interruptions.

"Go with the flow, pause and start again," he suggests. And if the counterparts line up meeting with their superior, then it's a clear indication that all your hard work of sitting through those long, pauses and noisy meetings has paid off.

... contd.